Question : The tile is very rough feeling (not glazed). I'm worried about wiping the grout off and not having it "stick" to the tile.

The tile book I bought says that you should add a "release agent" to the grout mix to help/prevent the grout from sticking to the tile. Sounds reasonable, except that Lowe's doesn't sell the stuff.

The Lowe's tile guy says that he usually just uses a really good sealer, which he showed me, and that it would serve the same purpose.

So what should I do...
- Go ahead and seal, because I should?
- Find a "release agent"...If so, any recommendations?

Thanks,
Jason

Sponsored Links

John Bridge

01-02-2004, 11:33 AM

Hi Jason,

Home Depot sells a "grout release" by Aquamix that works well. You apply it right before you grout -- maybe an hour or so. Try to keep it out of the joints as much as you can. Some will go in there. Don't worry too much about it. You do NOT add anything to the grout itself.

Another thing. Your floor area is very small. You should be able to point the grout into the joints with a pointer or margin trowel and not get too much on the face of the tiles. Then when you wash, don't smear it all over the place. Take your time.

Why no sealer? I figured the rough surface texture of the tiles would absorb some stains, ceramic or not.

I'll keeping going and thank you so much for all the help,
Jason

John Bridge

01-03-2004, 10:25 AM

Jason,

You can't add anything to the grout that the manufacturer does not approve. You have to follow directions.

You will seal the grout and possibly the tiles after the job is finished. Use the grout release over the surface of the tiles. It will protect them, but it will also come off when you wash. No pre-sealing.